Avian Images

Tuesday, October 15, 2013

Nashville Warbler

This foxy male Nashville Warbler almost didn't seem like a fall warbler - he was really bright! The eye-ring was white - the yellow was knock-out, and he had a great rufous crown. He also did not appreciate fellow bander Roger's attempt to smooth some feathers for a photo.

What's 6 Grams and Can Kick Your Butt?

It's not a trick question. Ruby-crowned kinglets seriously have a mind-set that they'll take you out, any day of the week and twice on Sunday. Gotta take a hat off, though, to something that small that can survive migration, cold temps, etc.

Orange-crowned Warbler

I had a chuckle as I looked at the date of my last post. Early Sept - the start of migration. Now we are at the tail end for many warblers, and some raptors.

Orange-crowned warbler banded this past weekend. The joke is this is one of the most nondescript fall warblers there can be. Look closely at the last photo to see the orange crown.

Monday, September 9, 2013

More Warblers

Chestnut sided

The diversity of warblers and other migrants continues! The difference in fall plumage as opposed to breeding (and hatch year to adult) is why we have so many reference books!

Gray cheeked Thrush

Mourning warbler

Ovenbird

Wilson's warbler

Sunday, September 8, 2013

Northern Parula

This species is so cool, it gets its own post. Northern Parula. Hadn't even seen as many in my lifetime as were in hand at one recent banding session. Whoot!

Warbler Migration

Bay breasted warbler

Went out with fellow bander Roger to see what warblers might be making their way south on migration. 2.5 hours of sitting - then one run made it all worthwhile! Fall warbler plumage is much more muted and indistinct - no need to impress girls or anyone else. Just need to blend in to survive predators as you move. Nice mix of hatch year and adult birds, too.